What Good Coaching Looks Like
🎾 Helping Parents Recognize Quality Coaching at Every Stage
Choosing a coach is a very important decision you’ll make in your child’s tennis journey. A good coach does far more than teach strokes—they shape how your child learns, grows, competes, and feels about the game. But for parents who are new to tennis, it can be difficult to know what good coaching actually looks like.
At FOFTA, we believe a good coach is not just a technician—they’re a mentor, motivator, communicator, and builder of character. They meet your child where they are and guide them toward where they can go, with patience, structure, and belief.
Here’s what to look for:
✅ 1. A Development-Focused Approach
Good coaches care more about long-term growth than short-term wins. You’ll see:
- Emphasis on proper technique before rushing into competition
- Clear progression in drills and learning goals
- Encouragement to explore, struggle, and learn through repetition
- A willingness to go slow to get it right
📌 Tip: Be wary of coaches who promise fast results or focus mainly on rankings at an early stage.
✅ 2. Communication That Connects
A great coach knows how to talk to kids in ways they understand and respond to. This includes:
- Giving clear, actionable feedback (not overwhelming them with technical jargon)
- Offering praise for effort, not just results
- Setting expectations and boundaries with consistency
- Building trust through calm, respectful interactions
📌 Tip: Watch how your child responds to their coach—do they seem engaged and comfortable, or tense and unsure?
✅ 3. Positive Energy and Professionalism
Good coaches bring positive energy to the court while maintaining structure and discipline. Look for:
- Enthusiasm and passion for teaching
- Professionalism—on time, prepared, respectful
- A growth mindset: they’re still learning too
- Consistency in behavior, tone, and coaching values
📌 Tip: Your child should leave practice feeling challenged, encouraged, and safe, not anxious or discouraged.
✅ 4. Age-Appropriate, Individualized Instruction
The best coaches adapt their teaching to your child’s age, stage, and personality. This includes:
- Game-based learning for younger players
- Structured repetition and targeted feedback for intermediates
- Strategy, mental routines, and match analysis for older or advanced players
- Encouraging autonomy as your child matures
📌 Tip: Ask how the coach tailors their approach across different levels—they should have a clear development pathway.
✅ 5. A Willingness to Partner with Parents (But Set Boundaries)
Good coaches don’t just coach players—they educate parents, too. You’ll see:
- Willingness to share progress and development focus
- Openness to questions and collaboration
- Healthy boundaries—respecting roles (coach coaches, parent supports)
📌 Tip: Respect the coach’s lane but expect transparent and honest communication when needed.
🚫 Warning Signs of Poor Coaching
- Harsh criticism or sarcasm
- Constant negative tone or emotional outbursts
- Lack of structure, goals, or visible progress
- Over-coaching during matches
- Prioritizing wins over well-being or development
At FOFTA, we believe in developing players with intention, care, and a clear purpose. If you’re seeing steady growth, emotional maturity, and a child who looks forward to showing up, that’s the sign of coaching done right.
“A good coach doesn’t just build a player. They build a person with confidence, resilience, and love for the game.”